The Kinks star Jim Rodford dies at age 76

The music world has lost another legend. Jim Rodford has sadly passed away at the age of 76.

The music icon had a career that spanned decades and played in an array of popular bands over the years including The Kinks, The Zombies and was the founding bassist of Argent.

In heartbreaking news, his Zombies bandmate and close cousin Rod Argent broke the news via the band’s Facebook page. Jim had tragically died after a terrible fall.

“It is with deep sadness that I learned this morning that my dear cousin and lifelong friend, Jim Rodford, died this morning after a fall on the stairs,” he said. “More details are not yet known about the exact cause of death.”

Rod explained that music was a massive part of Jim’s life, right until he passed away. “To the end, Jim’s life was dedicated to music. He was unfailingly committed to local music – an ever present member of the local scene in St.Albans, where he had spent his whole life.

“Jim was a wonderful person, loved by everybody. When Colin and I, shocked and hardly able to talk, shared the news this morning, Colin said ‘I’ve never heard anyone say a bad word about him…’ He will be unbelievably missed. Goodnight and God Bless dear friend.”

Devastated fans of Jim shared their sympathies online. One person wrote: “What a wonderful and heartfelt tribute, Rod. I got something in my eye as I was reading it…….still blurry, but I just have to share it, if I may. RIP Gentleman Jim Rodford, much loved, you will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the Argent family and friends.”

It is with deep sadness that we have learned that Jim Rodford passed away – he toured and recorded with the Kinks for many years and will be greatly missed. He was much loved by all of us #JimRodfordhttps://t.co/LmWFGd9ZRV

Another fan said: “Oh no! mourning the loss of a wonderful musician and more importantly a truly delightful person. He made the world a better place and we will all miss him. Condolences to family, friends and the band, who literally fit both categories.”

A third fan added: “So saddened with this unexpected news this morning about the wonderful Jim Rodford! What an Awesome musician and career he had. Your written tribute here is so heartfelt and I will miss seeing Jim on the upcoming show in Nashville in March. I feel honored to have seen Jim perform on all The Zombie shows I’ve been to! Take care and prayers are on the way for Jim and his family!”

Jim Rodford playing with The Zombies last year. Source: Getty

The Kinks also took to Twitter with a separate message. They explained: “It is with deep sadness that we have learned that Jim Rodford passed away – he toured and recorded with the Kinks for many years and will be greatly missed. He was much loved by all of us #JimRodford.”